Construction sites store a range of hazardous substances including fuels, solvents, adhesives, cement, and cleaning chemicals. Incorrect storage or missing labels can lead to chemical reactions, fires, poisoning, and environmental pollution. The COSHH Regulations require that all hazardous substances are stored safely and clearly labelled at all times. This talk covers the key storage and labelling requirements for hazardous substances on UK sites.
Key Hazards
Chemical reactions from incompatible substances stored together
Fire or explosion from flammable substances stored near ignition sources
Poisoning or skin burns from unlabelled containers mistaken for water
Environmental pollution from uncontained chemical spills reaching drains
Control Measures
Store all hazardous substances in their original labelled containers with GHS pictograms visible.
Segregate incompatible substances such as oxidisers and flammables in separate storage areas.
Keep flammable substances in a locked, ventilated COSHH store away from ignition sources.
Ensure secondary containment (bunds) hold at least 110% of the largest container volume.
Never decant chemicals into unlabelled containers or food and drink bottles.
Display safety data sheets for all hazardous substances in the COSHH store and work areas.
Keep spill kits appropriate for the stored substances immediately available at the storage location.
Inspect storage areas weekly for leaks, container damage, and correct segregation.
Brief all operatives on the location and contents of the COSHH store and the spill response procedure.
Remember
Store all hazardous substances in their original labelled containers with GHS pictograms visible
Segregate incompatible substances and keep flammables in a locked, ventilated store
Never decant chemicals into unlabelled containers or food and drink bottles
Bunds must hold at least 110% of the largest container volume to contain spills
Safety data sheets must be available at the storage location and at the point of use